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Re: Hamilton vs Gardiner

Gardiner isn't a prospect at this point, he's produced in the NHL quite admirably in the limited opportunities he's seen over the past couple seasons. Gardiner is the best possession driver the Leafs have, and I'd expect lots of ice-time this upcoming year. Don't go crazy and expect 45+ points, but he definitely provides value in the later rounds of the draft -- and a potential steal.

Re: Hamilton vs Gardiner

Originally Posted by Call of Doughty

same. 100%. I don't buy the JG hype. Reilly will be the man in 2 years IMO.

Yes, Rielly is a future #1 D. In terms of pure offensive talent (not potential) Gardiner is up with the best of them. His offensive prowess is no longer hype. But it's his defensive frailties that get him in trouble. Gardiner will get decent PP time, but has to share with Phaneuf, Franson and Rielly. You need to judge how much offensive potential Hamilton has and if Boston will put Hamilton on PP1 when Chara moves on (Krug seems to have locked up that spot).

Definitely keep Shatt. If you are a contender, Gardiner would be a safer choice this year I think.

Re: Hamilton vs Gardiner

Shattenkirk is a given. And Hamilton over Gardiner 10x out of 10 in a keeper. Dougie will be a Pietrangelo clone within 2 seasons. Book it. Gardiner will show flashes and end up in his coach's doghouse at times for taking dangerous risks. He also has Rielly, Phaneuf and Franson in the mix, not to mention Finn soon. Morgan Rielly will end up the stud producer on that Leafs blue line.